The Ascension to Power by Oedipus - Assignment Example

The prophecy about the ascension to power by Oedipus comes to pass in the play. Oedipus was to become king by killing his father Laius, which happened on his way to visit the town. The tragedy comes when he ascends to power and marries his mother. The life of Oedipus is complex because it is marked with several challenges including being tied and thrown away to prevent the prophecy to occur. He is the son of King Laius and Queen Jocasta but later married his mother. The realization of the tragedy of incest leads to the death of the queen because she commits suicide after knowing the truth. Oedipus kills his father during a disagreement along the road. In addition, he kills Sphinx making him a darling for the people of Thebes. A reward for the win and following the death of King Laius, Oedipus is given the throne leading to the interaction with the queen (Sophocles 1117). Oedipus marries his mother and gives birth to two boys and two girls namely Eteocles, Polynices, Antigone, and Ismene. The tragedy of incest leads to the blinding of Oedipus and leaving the city. The complex relationship between mother and son leads to the birth of four children who are also brothers to their father. The relationship between Antigone and Oedipus is complex in the definition because of the complex nature of their relationship. Eteocles fights for Thebes while polyneices fights for the rebel (Sophocles 1118). In the battle the rebel group is defeated and the new king of Thebes orders that Polyneices should not be buried creating controversy between leads to the death of Antigone for defying the rule or order of King Creon.
Part two
Sophocles was born in Colonus near Athens. Colonus was a city with a unique culture which is evident in the approach used in his drama. His father owned a business that manufactured armor. Sophocles studied music and was known for their mastery of music. His father was called Sophilus. He married twice and became the father of two sons named Lophon and Agathon. His career was perfect because he became the treasurer of Athena. He was also invested with the priesthood of Amynos (Sophocles 173). Sophocles had an impact on Western culture and was even given tribute for his achievement. The success of Sophocles is based on their educational background.
Part three
Seamus Heaney is a poet of Irish origin. He was a playwright, translator, and lecturer. He won the 1995 Nobel Prize in literature. He was born on April 13th, 1939 at Castledawson, and studied at queen’s university of Belfast and St Columb’s College. He won several rewards in literature including the T. S. Eliot prize. He has written several plays and poems including analysis of other works of art including the analysis of the Antigone play. Read More